Controller Mount With Pivot Arm for Adjustable Smartphone Viewing

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for improved mounts that can simultaneously and adjustably hold game controllers and smartphones, allowing for optimal gaming experiences by providing a secure and adjustable viewing position, and also serving as a stand for the smartphone when needed.

Innovation Solution

A multi-function controller mount that includes a pivotably attached arm and device tray, allowing for adjustable height and viewing angle, with a lock lever for secure positioning, and the ability to detach the arm and tray for use as a standalone stand.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed mount is used to hold the smartphone, then the smartphone is securely positioned, but the viewing angle and height cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of viewing angle and heightVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustability through a pivotable arm mechanism that allows the smartphone holder to be positioned at various angles and heights. The arm can rotate and tilt to provide optimal viewing positions while maintaining secure holding capability through locking features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a simple clip system is used to attach to the controller, then the mounting is easy to implement, but it cannot accommodate controllers of different sizes and shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different controller sizes and shapesVSAvoidclip system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal clip system with multiple attachment points and adjustable positioning features that can securely hold various controller sizes and shapes. The clip mechanism is designed to adapt to different geometries while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The clip system is divided into multiple segments or attachment points that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to accommodate different controller shapes and sizes by configuring the clips in appropriate positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mount is designed as a single integrated unit, then the structure is simple, but it cannot be used as a standalone stand or with different configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-functionality including standalone stand capabilityVSAvoidmodular structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mount is designed as a modular system with separable components including a base unit, an adjustable arm, and a smartphone holder. These segments can be configured together for controller mounting or separated to use the base and arm as a standalone adjustable stand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design enables the system to serve multiple functions: it can be assembled with a controller for gaming use, or the arm and holder can be detached and used with the base as a standalone adjustable stand for viewing videos or other applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11654351B2Multi-function controller mount
Publication Date: 2023.05.23 OTTER PRODUCTS LLC
  • US11654351B2 patent drawing
  • US11654351B2 patent drawing
  • US11654351B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-function controller mount is configured or adapted for use with a game controller and an electronic device. The mount includes a controller receiver for removably attaching to the game controller with a retention strap. The mount also includes an arm having a first end pivotably attached to the controller receiver at a first pivot axis. The mount also includes a device tray that is pivotably attached to a second end of the arm at a second pivot axis. The device tray is configured for holding the smartphone at an adjustable height and viewing angle. The height and the viewing angle are adjustable through movement or the arm at the first pivot axis and movement of the device tray at the second pivot axis. The mount also includes a lock feature attached to the arm for selectively preventing movement of the arm relative to the controller receiver.